As a bartender, I have come to appreciate the art of mixing drinks. There is something truly magical about taking a few simple ingredients and turning them into a complex and delicious cocktail.
One of my favorite ingredients to work with is the shrub. This sweet and tangy syrup is made by combining fruit, sugar, and vinegar, and it is the perfect addition to any cocktail.
Shrubs have been around for centuries, and they were originally used as a way to preserve fruit before the invention of refrigeration.
Today, shrubs have become a staple in the world of mixology, and bartenders all over the world are using them to create innovative and delicious cocktails.
One of the things I love about shrubs is their versatility. They can be made with any fruit or combination of fruits, and they can be paired with a wide range of spirits.
Whether you prefer gin, vodka, rum, or whiskey, there is a shrub cocktail out there that is perfect for you.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite shrub cocktail recipes. From classic combinations like strawberry and balsamic to more unusual pairings like watermelon and jalapeño, these cocktails are sure to impress.
So, whether you are a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist looking to up your game, read on for some inspiration and ideas for your next shrub cocktail creation.
1. Shrub Cocktail
The Shrub Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that has taken the cocktail world by storm. This retro cocktail craze is made from a combination of vinegar, sugar, and fruit, resulting in a unique and tangy flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The beauty of this cocktail is that it can be made with any fruit you desire, from peach to strawberry, blackberry, cherry, rhubarb, or any other fruit you fancy.
The Shrub Cocktail is perfect for those who want a non-alcoholic sipper, but it can also be mixed with your favorite spirit for a boozy twist. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to add to your repertoire, the Shrub Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
2. Meyer Lemon Shrub Drink
The Meyer Lemon Shrub Drink is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that combines the sweetness of Meyer lemons with the tartness of vinegar. This cocktail is a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more. The Meyer Lemon Shrub Drink is a great way to take advantage of those gorgeous Meyer lemons you see in the store.
The cocktail is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to impress your guests with a unique and delicious drink. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both sweet and tangy, the Meyer Lemon Shrub Drink is the perfect choice.
3. Cranberry Orange Shrub
The Cranberry Orange Shrub is a refreshing and versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed as a mocktail or an alcoholic drink. This cocktail is made using a vinegar and sugar-based fruit drink, which is mixed with cranberries and oranges to create a delightful flavor.
The frozen cranberries add a beautiful touch to the drink and keep it chilled without diluting it. This cocktail is perfect for the holiday season and can be served in a variety of glasses.
4. Fig Thyme Shrub Cocktail
The Fig Thyme Shrub Cocktail is a tangy and sweet drink with a hint of herby flavor. It's made with a blend of sugar, vinegar, and fruit that steeps overnight in the fridge. The vodka-based cocktail is incredibly refreshing and delicious, with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
The fig and thyme combination adds an unexpected twist to the drink, making it a must-try for those who love pickled or vinegary things. It's a great way to bridge the gap between summer and fall and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
5. Brandy and Blackberry Lavender Shrub
The Brandy and Blackberry Lavender Shrub is a perfect summer cocktail that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This cocktail is a combination of apple brandy, dry vermouth, fresh lemon juice, and a homemade blackberry lavender shrub. The shrub adds a rich tart flavor to the cocktail, making it a perfect drink to sip on a warm summer day.
The use of fresh lavender leaves in the shrub adds a nice complexity to the cocktail, making it more nuanced and flavorful. The cocktail is tart and fruity, with a hint of sweetness that helps balance out the sour bite of the shrub. Overall, the Brandy and Blackberry Lavender Shrub is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a refreshing and flavorful drink this summer.
6. Honey Blackberry Shrub
The Honey Blackberry Shrub cocktail is a refreshing and summery drink made with a cold version of the shrub, which is a mixture of vinegar and honey poured over fresh blackberries. The longer the shrub macerates, the more the flavors meld together, giving the drink a unique and delicious taste.
This cocktail is perfect for parties and can be made ahead of time. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve at your next pool party, the Honey Blackberry Shrub is definitely worth trying.
7. Bourbon Apple Cider Shrub Cocktail
The Bourbon Apple Cider Shrub Cocktail is a perfect drink to sip on during the fall season. This cocktail is made with a cold-infused simple syrup with vinegar added in equal parts, which mellows with time to produce a smooth yet complex base. The apple shrub is punchy, but mellows with a little time, and the mixture will melt down into a luscious syrup.
The flavors of this apple shrub drink will marry and mellow over time, creating an ultra-smooth finish when added to a cocktail. The addition of bourbon gives it a warm, cozy feeling, perfect for enjoying on a chilly autumn evening. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to impress your guests, the Bourbon Apple Cider Shrub Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Pear and Ginger Sparklers
The Pear and Ginger Sparklers is a delicious and boozy New Year's Eve cocktail that combines a pear ginger shrub with vodka, lemon juice, honey, and champagne. The shrub is a sweet and sour concentrated syrup made from pears, honey, and apple cider vinegar, which gives the cocktail a complex and robust flavor. The addition of ginger adds a nice spicy punch that wakes up your taste buds.
The cocktail is sweet from the honey, a little sour and spicy from the shrub and ginger, bright from the lemon, boozy from the vodka, and crisp and sparkling from the champagne. It's a beautiful and complex cocktail that tastes like it came from a high-end cocktail bar. Perfect for a classy NYE party or a romantic date night in.
9. Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub Cocktail
The Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub Cocktail is a refreshing and unique drink that is perfect for those hot summer days. This cocktail is made with a combination of strawberries and rhubarb, mixed with sugar and vinegar to create a delicious fruit-flavored syrup.
The addition of club soda and your favorite liquor, such as gin or white rum, creates a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. The use of apple cider vinegar and white balsamic vinegar helps to smooth out the flavors and make the cocktail even more enjoyable. If you are looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub Cocktail is definitely worth a taste.
10. Cranberry Rosemary Shrub Cocktail
The Cranberry Rosemary Shrub Cocktail is a festive and colorful drink that is perfect for Thanksgiving. This cocktail is made with a homemade cranberry shrub that is infused with hints of black pepper, rosemary, and cinnamon. The shrub is then combined with bourbon and seltzer to create a tangy yet sweet cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
The addition of fresh rosemary and cranberries as garnish adds a touch of elegance to the drink. This cocktail is easy to make and is a great option for those who want to try something new and unique. If you're looking for a Thanksgiving cocktail that is both delicious and visually stunning, the Cranberry Rosemary Shrub Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
11. Apple Shrub
Looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to add to your bartending repertoire? Look no further than the Apple Shrub! This cocktail is made with a fruit and vinegar shrub syrup, which adds a layered complexity to the crisp and juicy flavor of the SweeTango apples used in the recipe.
The subtle tartness from the cider vinegar makes this cocktail a perfect pairing with bourbon or whiskey, and it's sure to warm you up on a chilly evening. The Apple Shrub is a must-try for anyone looking for a creative and delicious cocktail that's easy to make at home.
12. Strawberry Shrub Cocktail
The Strawberry Shrub Cocktail is a unique and refreshing drink that is perfect for summer. Made with a homemade shrub syrup, this cocktail has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that is balanced out by the addition of seltzer water.
The use of dry gin as the alcohol of choice adds a subtle botanical note to the drink, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more complex cocktail. Overall, the Strawberry Shrub Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting cocktail to add to their repertoire.
13. Lemon Rosemary Shrub
The Lemon Rosemary Shrub is a refreshing and unique cocktail that is perfect for summer parties. This cocktail is made with a combination of lemon, rosemary, sugar, and vinegar, which gives it a tangy and sweet flavor. The addition of gin adds a subtle kick to the drink, making it perfect for those who prefer a slightly stronger cocktail.
What sets this cocktail apart is the use of shrub, a flavored vinegar-based syrup that gives it a distinct flavor. Overall, the Lemon Rosemary Shrub is a must-try for those who are looking for a new and exciting cocktail to add to their repertoire.
14. Bourbon Ginger Shrub Cocktail
The Bourbon Ginger Shrub Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet and spicy drink. Made with a homemade ginger ‘drinking vinegar,’ this sparkling whiskey, lime and ginger libation is a delightful anytime sipper.
The cocktail is a grown-up version of a simple Bourbon + Ginger Cocktail, made with ginger ale, bourbon, and lime juice. The shrub used in the recipe is made with grated ginger root, sugar, water, and apple cider vinegar, giving the drink a spicy kick. If you're a fan of ginger and bourbon, this cocktail is definitely worth trying.
15. Mango Basil Shrub Sparkler
The Mango Basil Shrub Sparkler is a refreshing cocktail that combines the tangy flavor of mango lime shrub with the aromatic taste of basil. The combination of shrub, sugar, and bubbles creates a unique and delicious flavor that is perfect for summer.
The cocktail is made with the Mango Lime Shrub from False Ox, a Toronto-based group that is passionate about creating high-quality shrubs. If you're looking for a tasty and refreshing cocktail that is easy to make, then the Mango Basil Shrub Sparkler is definitely worth trying.
16. Strawberry Balsamic Shrub With Rosemary
The Strawberry Balsamic Shrub with Rosemary is a refreshing and tangy cocktail that is perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and sour flavors. This classic drink is made with fresh strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and sugar, and is infused with the subtle aroma of rosemary.
The shrub syrup is made using a hot method, which imparts a slightly cooked flavor to the fruit, but still maintains its fresh taste. While the majority of the calories in this drink come from added sugars, it can be enjoyed in moderation by diluting the syrup with more water or soda. Overall, the Strawberry Balsamic Shrub with Rosemary is a unique and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
17. Cranberry Shrub With Black Pepper and Maple
The Cranberry Shrub with Black Pepper and Maple is a festive and healthy cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. The shrub is made with fresh cranberries, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup, and is lightly spiced with black peppercorns for a unique and earthy flavor.
This vibrant red cocktail can be served with or without alcohol, making it a versatile option for any gathering. While some may be hesitant about the use of black peppercorns, they actually work to mellow the tartness of the cranberries and add a well-rounded flavor. This cocktail is a great addition to any holiday party or as a special treat to enjoy at home.
18. Grapefruit Clementine & Rosemary Shrub
The Grapefruit Clementine & Rosemary Shrub is a unique and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for those who love a tangy and sour taste. Made with grapefruit, clementine, honey, apple cider vinegar, and rosemary, this shrub cocktail is a sweet and acidic syrup that is perfect for mixing with soda water or as a cocktail mixer.
The grapefruit adds a bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the honey, while the rosemary adds a subtle herbaceous note to the drink. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of winter citrus season in a new and exciting way. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both delicious and easy to make, the Grapefruit Clementine & Rosemary Shrub is definitely worth a try.
19. Sparkling Raspberry Basil Shrub Cocktail
The Sparkling Raspberry Basil Shrub Cocktail is a refreshing and unique drink that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a sweet-tart raspberry syrup, fragrant basil, and a touch of white balsamic vinegar, this cocktail is balanced perfectly with bubbles.
The shrub adds complexity and depth to the drink, making it a must-try for anyone who loves cocktails. If you're looking for a new and exciting drink to try, the Sparkling Raspberry Basil Shrub Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
20. Raspberry Shrub Cocktail
The Raspberry Shrub Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful drink. Made with raspberries, sugar, and a combination of vinegars, this cocktail has a sweet and tangy taste that is sure to delight your taste buds.
The shrub adds complexity and depth to the drink, making it a perfect choice for those who want to try something new. Whether you're sipping it at home or enjoying it at a cocktail party, the Raspberry Shrub Cocktail is sure to be a hit. So why not give it a try and experience the delicious flavors for yourself?
21. Tarragon Carrot Shrub
The Tarragon Carrot Shrub is a unique and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for the fall season. This cocktail features a homemade carrot shrub that is mixed with vodka, gin, and bubbles. The addition of fresh tarragon adds a subtle herbaceous note that balances out the sweetness of the carrot shrub.
This cocktail can also be made non-alcoholic by mixing it with sparkling water. Overall, the Tarragon Carrot Shrub is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering.
22. Cherry Vanilla Maple Shrub
Cherry Vanilla Maple Shrub is a refreshing and healthy drinking vinegar that can be mixed with ice and sparkling water to create a simple soda-like beverage. Made with sweet cherries, vanilla bean, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and balsamic vinegar, this shrub has a surprisingly delicious taste that will leave you wanting more.
The addition of rye whiskey gives it a perfect kick, making it an ideal cocktail for any occasion. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful drink, Cherry Vanilla Maple Shrub is definitely worth a try.
23. Tequila & Celery Shrub Cleanse
The Tequila & Celery Shrub Cleanse is a refreshing and cleansing cocktail that is perfect for those looking for a detox after a week of indulgence. Made with real tequila and False Ox's Celery Jalapeno Shrub, this cocktail is a balance of bright, fresh vegetables and pure tequila.
The absence of sugar in the tequila makes it a healthier option for those who are sensitive to sugars. The cocktail is easy to make and can be converted into a mocktail. If you are looking for a refreshing and healthy cocktail, the Tequila & Celery Shrub Cleanse is definitely worth trying.
24. Grapefruit Shrub
The Grapefruit Shrub is a refreshing and zesty non-alcoholic cocktail that combines the tangy flavors of grapefruit with the sweetness of sugar and the acidity of apple cider vinegar. This sparkling mocktail is perfect for those who want to cut back on alcohol without sacrificing taste and fun.
The grapefruit shrub syrup can be mixed with tea, juices, or sparkling water, making it a versatile drink that can be enjoyed anytime. With its health benefits and delicious taste, the Grapefruit Shrub is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail experience.
25. Strawberry Honey Hibiscus Shrub
The Strawberry Honey Hibiscus Shrub is a delightful cocktail that is perfect for spring. It is a sweet and tangy combination of strawberries, honey, and hibiscus vinegar that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The hibiscus flowers add a unique flavor and powerful antioxidants that make this cocktail not only delicious but also healthy. The recipe is easy to make and requires patience while waiting for the flavors to meld together. This shrub cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves fruity and refreshing drinks.
26. Raspberry Shrub
The Raspberry Shrub is a sweet and fruity cocktail with a unique twist of vinegar. Made with homemade raspberry vinegar, this cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something different. The word "shrub" comes from the Arabic word "sharab" which means "syrup" or "drink".
While this recipe may not be traditional, it is easy to make and surprisingly delicious. The Raspberry Shrub is a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed on any occasion. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Raspberry Shrub is definitely worth a shot.
27. Strawberry Balsamic Shrub
The Strawberry Balsamic Shrub is a delightful and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for spring. Made with fresh strawberries, cane sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, this cocktail is both sweet and tart. The robust flavor of balsamic vinegar perfectly complements the sweet and floral strawberries, while the tartness of apple cider vinegar adds a delightful tang.
This cocktail can be enjoyed as a mocktail mixed with sparkling water or club soda, or drizzled over oatmeal, yogurt, or sorbet. It can also be mixed with a salad vinaigrette dressing for a pop of unexpected flavor. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to try this spring, the Strawberry Balsamic Shrub is definitely worth a taste.
